Top 5 Apps Like Duolingo in 2025

Categories: DesignDevelopment
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Chili Labs
Oct 17, 2025
5 min

When learning new languages we usually think of the Duolingo app, which most of us have used before. Despite finding the green owl character annoying when they fail to answer correctly or skip a training day. Duolingo transformed language education into a competitive game experience that users either enjoy or dislike - but as a result it works!!

But have you ever wondered if there are other apps that can fit you better? Even if you are into standard grammar lessons, or willing to connect with real speakers, or play it like a game, or have a live chat with AI persons! We did some research and found out that there are many more options that can help you better!

And the first app we willing to tell about is:

NativePal – real-life conversations with AI bots

Nativepal app NativePal is an AI based conversational app that helps you practise speaking in 55 different languages. What is interesting about NativePal, that it lets you practice real dialogues with intelligent AI bots, who provide immediate feedback about grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. Real life talk, on any topic you like! Without judgment, only structured feedback. By the way, this app is built as a cross platform application using Flutter app development. What makes NativePal extra special for us is that it was developed by Chili Labs former colleague - Android and Flutter developer, Darja Orlova. Her work is a great example of how thoughtful app design and user interface, combined with innovative mobile app development, can turn an idea into a useful product.

Pricing: Free / premium – free plan with premium tiers for unlimited chats

👉 Web

👉 iOS

👉 Android

Memrise – Learn from videos with native speakers

memrise.png Memrise teaches vocabulary through authentic video clips of native speakers. Its design feels as engaging as a hot app like TikTok, showing how mobile app design can turn study time into entertainment. As for developers, Memrise shows the importance of combining a design concept with smart push notifications, for example this feature also is used in cash advance apps for Android.

Pricing: Free / Premium – free basic access, premium for full courses & offline learning

👉 Web

👉 Android

👉 iOS

Busuu – Learn with real people feedback

busuu.png Busuu app is made to connect you with native speakers. You can submit your speaking or writing homeworks for feedback from native speakers. Like if you got a friend from another country, isn't it cool?! Busuu development team nailed cross platform app development and app marketing promotion by focusing on community and credibility — a strategy that has worked well for apps like Brigit in the finance sector.

Pricing: Free / Premium – core lessons free, premium adds offline mode & grammar review

👉 Web

👉 Android

👉 iOS

Babbel – Structured lessons for conservative learners

babbel.png If you prefer more standard, methodical learning, Babbel is your option. It offers in-depth grammar explanations, realistic dialogues, and progress tracking that feels professional. Babbel feels reliable and easy to use thanks to its thoughtful UI/UX design. It’s a great model for anyone exploring how to build app performance comparable to MoneyLion cash advance app quality.

Pricing: Only paid – subscription (about €6–13 per month)

👉Web

👉iOS

👉Android

Xeropan – Gamified AI lessons - feels like you are playing a game

xeropan.png Xeropan includes storytelling, gamification, and AI all in one app. Players go on time-travel missions, chatting with AI characters while improving language skills — it’s both fun and effective. Its colorful app design user interface proves that cross platform app development and playful UX can dramatically increase retention.

Pricing: Free / Premium – free daily lessons, premium unlocks extra content & offline use

👉Web

👉Android

👉iOS

Which is more suitable for you? Here you can compare features:

native pal (3).png

Thinking of building your own app?

Each of these apps is a great example of great quality of mobile app development, UI/UX design, and app marketing strategy. In case you are planning your own app or you have one, its success will depend on:

  • Choose native or cross platform app development
  • Regular code audit and optimization
  • Engaging and thoughtful app design user interface
  • Smart app marketing and promotion
  • Clear value — whether it’s learning, finance, or entertainment

Same advices can be applied to any app, which includes categories like free instant cash advance apps, instant loan apps in USA, best photo editing apps, apps for song recognition, or even Omegle alternatives and apps like Airbnb.

Whether you’re improving your language skills or planning to create the next apps like MoneyLion, best currency exchange app, or Reddit alternative, remember: successful apps grow where user needs meets great design and smart technology.

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